River Island's £45 autumn cardigan looks like Chanel and doesn't need ironing

When it comes to autumn fashion, nothing is more elegant and timeless than Chanel. Among many things, the brand is adored around the world for its tweed two-piece sets but as a luxury designer item, they do not come cheap.

Fortunately, fashion fans can get the Parisian look, but for a lot less at River Island. The high street retailer is offering its version of the classic Chanel jacket, the White Knit Button Up Military Cardigan, for a friendly £45. When the high-end version retails for £6,000 second-hand, it's a considerable saving.

Both pieces - while admittedly not identical - share striking similarities. In fact, we think the budget-friendly version could get mistaken for being from one of Chanel's latest collections.

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The £45 cardigan, which has been hailed as 'trending' by River Island, has been constructed from a lightweight knitted fabric designed to be the perfect layering piece, or worn on its own on warmer days. The mix fabric is known for its softness and ability to drape well, in addition to being crease-resistant with little to no ironing required, which is always a plus.

It's also worth mentioning that the piece comes with decorative pockets, a classic crew neckline and long sleeves. It's finished with sophisticated gold buttons that run down the front placket.

The White Knit Button Up Military Cardigan comes in sizes six to 18, most of which are still in stock. We do think this is going to be very popular this season, so it's worth adding to your basket fast to avoid any disappointment. It also comes in an equally as stunning black colourway, too.

Thanks to its timeless design, it can be worn season after season without ever going out of style. To add a 2024 flare, style with the trendy £32 Bubble Hem Mini Skirt, which is available in three colours, or add a pair of blue jeans such as the £45 Blue High Waisted Slim Fit Ankle Grazer Jeans to keep it casual yet chic.

Elsewhere, New Look stocks the £32.99 Buttoned Bouclé Cardigan in cream, grey and navy. At Marks and Spencer, the Cloud-Yarn Textured Crew Neck Cardigan costs £35 and is available in grey or cappuccino in sizes extra small to extra large.